Print
Category: Non-Local News Releases Non-Local News Releases
Published: 17 September 2021 17 September 2021

SANTA FE — This week, all 15 members of the Senate Republican Caucus signed a letter to Secretary James Kenney, joining the growing bipartisan opposition to the New Mexico Environment Department's proposed ozone precursor rule. The proposed new rule is projected to cause a substantial decrease in oil and gas production, and deal a devastating blow to the New Mexico energy economy.

"This is not just about the potential loss of thousands of jobs—it is about the dangerous ripple effect of crippling a driving economic force in our state's economy," said Senator Gay Kernan (District 42-Chaves, Eddy, and Lea). "We all want to move our state forward, but I fear this excessive rule will do much more harm than good."

"The assault on oil and gas is nothing more than a rejection of reality," added Senator William Sharer (District 1-San Juan). "Even our Governor, who does not often side with us on many issues, understands what a devastating impact a rule like this could have on our economy. I hope the Environment Department recognizes the need to put our citizens and their livelihoods ahead of the political posturing of the radical environmental left."

The signed letter is attached.